A marriage is a wedding ceremony where two different people or a couple of are united in relationship. Wedding customs and customs change greatly between civilizations, ethnic organizations, religions, countries, and communal classes. Most marriages require an exchange of relationship vows by the few, presentation of an surprise (offering, ring(s), symbolic item, plants, money), and a general population proclamation of matrimony by an power physique or celebrant. Special wedding clothing tend to be worn, and the wedding ceremony is sometimes then a marriage reception. Music, poetry, prayers or readings from spiritual texts or books are also commonly integrated into the wedding ceremony.

Some civilizations have adopted the original European custom of the white wedding, when a bride would wear a white bridal dress and veil. This custom was popularized through the matrimony of Queen Victoria. Some say Victoria's selection of a white wedding dress may have simply been an indicator of extravagance, but may are also affected by the ideals she organised which emphasized erotic purity. Within the present day 'white wedding' custom, a white dress and veil are uncommon options for a woman's second or following wedding.

The usage of a wedding wedding ring is definitely part of spiritual weddings in European countries and America, however the source of the traditions is unclear. One likelihood is the Roman idea in the Vena amoris, that was thought to be a blood vessels vessel that ran from the 4th finger (engagement ring finger) right to the heart and soul. Thus, whenever a couple wore bands upon this finger, their hearts were linked. Historian Vicki Howard highlights that the notion in the "old" quality of the practice is most probably a modern technology. "Double engagement ring" ceremonies are also today's practice, a groom's strap not appearing in america until the early on 20th century.

Most religions discover a long term union with proven ceremonies and rituals. Some religions enable polygamous relationships or same-sex relationships. Many Religious faiths point out the bringing up of children as important in a married relationship. In Judaism, relationship is so important that staying unmarried is regarded as unnatural. Islam also advises matrimony highly; among other activities, it can help in the quest for spiritual perfection.